Used 2005 Nissan Altima Consumer Reviews
Why not to buy Altimas from an Engineer
I have had multiple problems with my 2005 3.5SE. I have been to the dealer 4 times in 3 months for different reasons. Nissan consumer help is lacking in technical knowledge, and always says, "That is normal operation." The alignment will not stay straight, radio reception is poor, A/C won't shut off until the car is turned off, rear view mirror is impossible to see out of at night (dangerous!), glare from front and rear dashboards obstructs view, and it doesn't get that good of gas mileage. So overall, the designers of this car did not think through their comfort factor of the car, only the power and the looks.
after 4 months, still no regrets
I finally bought the 2005 Altima 3.5se with leather sport package, Bose stereo system, fully loaded except for Nav. It took me 8 months to decide on a car and I am so glad I bought this one. I read lots of mediocre reviews, but I only have the most positive things to say about this car. Heard things like interior felt cheap and the stereo was poor quality. I can not agree. The stereo is crystal clear 99% of the time and picks up stations in L.A. which is 150 miles away! Leather is superb, nothing feels cheap about the car. In fact, went test driving some B.M.W 's with a friend and we both liked my Nissan better! It's roomie, sturdy, powerful, and classy. 100% what I wanted!
- 3.5 SE SedanMSRP: $4,895491 mi away
- 2.5 S SedanMSRP: $5,499540 mi away
- 2.5 S SedanMSRP: $4,999550 mi away
2005 Nissan Altima 3.5 SE-R
I bought this car at a large auto auction. I was looking for a 2005 Altima SE or Maxima SE. Came across this one and fell in love with its design. This car has it all for a stock 4-door sedan. The gas mileage is okay, I am averaging 21 MPG, but that is probably due to the fact that this car wants to be driven hard. This car will flat out fly. I had to by the automatic b/c the wife refuses to learn a manual. The ride quality of this car is good, but not great. This is due to the 18 inch low profile wheels and super stiff sport suspension. This is not your grandpa's Caddy. Bottom line, I would buy this over the competition. Nissan is making some of the best cars on the road.
Time Reveals Reliability
I've previously owned 4 Nissans. Had balky starting problem/engine miss caused by 2 oil clogged crankshaft and camshaft sensors. Recall reprograms ECM to address safety concerns (of sudden power loss) rather than starting /missing problems. I replaced sensors myself to avoid $300 to dealer. Odometer 64K. Must now watch oil consumption for signs of disintegrating catalytic converters that cause $6000 destruction of engine. 2.5 engine also susceptible to blown head gasket/leaking coolant into cylinders. Nissan (dealers/Corporate) blame irrelevant oil maintenance to avoid reimbursing owners. Many, many complaints on Edmunds website. I'll be looking elsewhere for another brand.
Safety of 2005 altima
Leased vehicle 8/2004 after receiving offer from Nissan on early termination of lease on 2001 Pathfinder. Loved that SUV. Was impressed with Altima's overall design and engine performance. Neglected to check oversall body frame. Late August 2004 while slowly backing out of a parking space hit a low brick planter(too low to see in rear view mirror. Cost replacement molded bumper $542.00.Used a magnet to check the body and found the hood and trunk were molded not metal. Concerned safety driving this car whose body is not 100% metal.